Flu vaccination clinics to be held

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The El Dorado County Public Health Division will host three walk-in flu vaccination clinics in South Lake Tahoe.

The clinics come as state health officials are seeing an increase in flu activity in California. While influenza activity varies from year to year and is unpredictable, California generally sees an increase in cases in late December or early January and it often peaks in February or March. According to California Department of Public Health surveillance indicators, influenza activity in California is beginning to show a steady increase.

"The best defense against the flu is getting vaccinated. This year's vaccine is an excellent match against this year's influenza strains," CDPH director Dr. Ron Chapman stated in a press release. "There is no shortage of vaccine in California and it is not too late to get vaccinated. Our flu season may not peak for several more weeks, so I encourage everyone to get vaccinated to protect not only themselves, but those with whom they come into contact."

Clinics will be held from 1:30-4 p.m. on Jan. 16, 18 and 23 at 1360 Johnson Blvd., Suite 103. No appointment is needed. The cost for the flu vaccine is $10, which must be paid with cash or a check. No one will be denied the vaccine if they are unable to pay. The vaccine is available for anyone 6 months old or older.

Those who cannot attend one of the walk-in flu clinics may schedule an appointment to receive the flu vaccine at another time.

In addition to getting vaccinated, Chapman recommends that those who are sick limit contact with others, cover their noses and mouths when coughing or sneezing, wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based rub and avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth.

For more information, or to schedule a flu vaccination appointment, call public health at 530-573-3155 or visit www.cdph.ca.gov.